On route, 4–8 bikes are neither chaotic traffic nor a rally. Lead guide or sweep up front, second instructor or mechanic in support vehicle behind (Morocco lists this explicitly). Spacing lets you see the gravel pothole ahead and avoids eating the leader’s dust toward Merzouga. Pass only on sweep signal; stops on gesture, not “vanished from mirror.” Below—rules we repeat at briefing in Hanoi, Casablanca, or Belgrade.
Spacing and pace
Pavement—2–3 seconds; gravel and dust—more. Pace is sweep’s call, not the fastest guest. Chasing on Ma Pi Leng or Kotor switchbacks is riskier than being ten minutes late for coffee.
Fatigued—hand signal, stop on safe pull-off. We do not leave a rider alone, but we do not push through wrist pain.
Signals and passing
Sweep whistle/gesture—obstacle, animal, gravel. Passing in group—only when cleared; oncoming traffic on mountain section—patience.
Comms: intercom optional; without it—pre-agreed stops. Phone on route—not for guest navigation.
Who owns what
Organizer: route, hotels, sweep, bike recovery. Rider: gear, passing discipline, honest fatigue signals.
Morocco support van recovers broken bikes; Vietnam—mechanic on sweep bike. Not a photo chase car—it is operational.
| Situation | Do | Don't | Who decides |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gravel | more gap | tailgate | sweep |
| Pass | wait signal | double pass | sweep |
| Fatigue | signal + stop | silence | rider |
| Puncture | stop, comms | ride on | sweep+mech |
FAQ
01How many bikes?
Usually 4–8 riders; Morocco program up to 10. Exact cap on calendar for your date.
02Fall back for photos?
Only at agreed stops. Not on switchbacks without sweep clearance.
03Intercom required?
No. Handy on highway; in Vietnamese villages hand signals are more reliable.